Boxing News

A TRUE ROLE MODEL

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MIGUEL COTTO is a true role model for the next generation of fighters. In a time when media circuses follow non-worthy bouts, and champions are crowned without ever truly earning it, Cotto has gone about his business with a style and grace that few others have ever shown. Whether in victory or defeat, Cotto has oozed class, earning the respect of almost every boxing insider and fan alike, while being respectful in return. This respect has been shown to almost all of his opponents as well (with the exception of Antonio Margarito, understand­ably). Any aspiring boxer should take Cotto’s career as an example of how to do things the right way. He was a breath of fresh air compared to the grotesque displays that are commonly on show these days in the sport. A true great in every sense of the word. Take a bow Miguel. You will be massively missed. Michael Coverley

IMPOSSIBLE TO BE IMPARTIAL

AS much as I tried, I found it impossible to be impartial watching the Miguel Cotto-sadam Ali fight. It was an emotional farewell for the Puerto Rican legend. Thankfully, Cotto has given us so many great memories over the years that will overshadow his defeat. Though Cotto jabbed, moved and went to the body well in spurts, his reactions to getting caught clean showed that he was slipping. I was thankful he heard the final bell, and was glad the judges – unlike myself – were emotionles­s and impartial when scoring Ali as the rightful winner. Paul Thorpe, Wrexham

SALUTE MIGUEL

FAREWELL to an excellent servant to the game. Miguel Cotto had beautiful skills, as well as heavy hands and a good ring IQ. Win or lose, he always at least gave a good account of himself. He can retire with the same grace with which he always carried himself. Salute Miguel. Carl Corbin

TEAM BELLEW ROLLED THE DICE

KEVIN CLARKE’S letter (November 30) concerning David Haye’s inability to fight at the top level anymore due to his injury record sounded about right to me. However, Tony Bellew and his team must’ve been aware of the risks involved when accepting to fight Haye in a rematch, given his past history of injuries. Therefore, Team Bellew can’t complain about the rematch being postponed until May. They chose to fight Haye because it’s a more lucrative option than fighting a top cruiserwei­ght. They rolled the dice, and it’s not come off. That’s life in boxing. John Farey, Mitcham

 ?? Photo: TOM HOGAN/HOGAN PHOTOS/GOLDEN BOY ?? ONE OF A KIND: Cotto, unlike so many, remains a popular figure with almost all fight fans
Photo: TOM HOGAN/HOGAN PHOTOS/GOLDEN BOY ONE OF A KIND: Cotto, unlike so many, remains a popular figure with almost all fight fans

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